Which instructional strategy involves peer teaching and collaborative learning?

The choice of cooperative learning as the correct answer is appropriate because this instructional strategy is specifically designed to enhance learning through collaboration among peers. In cooperative learning, students work together in small groups to achieve a common goal, engage in discussions, and support each other's understanding of the material. This approach encourages active participation and allows students to learn from one another, utilizing diverse perspectives and strengths.

In cooperative learning environments, students often take on different roles within their groups, fostering skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. This method contrasts with strategies like direct instruction, which typically involves a teacher-centered approach, where the instructor delivers information directly to students without as much emphasis on peer interaction. Independent study and lecture-based instruction further emphasize individual work and teacher-led delivery rather than collaborative engagement among students. Therefore, cooperative learning distinctly stands out as the strategy that prioritizes peer teaching and collaborative efforts, making it the most suitable choice.